Wednesday, November 13, 2013

LASUTH produces first Nigerian female Consultant Urologist

Photo: Me
Dr. Abolarinwa Abimbola
Dr. Abolarinwa Abimbola is a Urologist in the Department of Surgery of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, (LASUTH) Ikeja. She is a promising young doctor with a strong desire to get to the pinnacle of her career. She is the first female Consultant Urologic Surgeon (Urologist) in Nigeria. Without saying much, let's get to meet her in this interview.

Crowny : Congratulations on your success in the part II Fellowship examination
Dr. Abolarinwa: Thank you very much
Crowny: Can we know what university you graduated from?

Dr. Abolarinwa: College of Medicine, University of Ibadan

Crowny: When did you pass your Part II Fellowship Examination?

Dr. Abolarinwa: 25th of October, 2013

Crowny: How long have you been in the residency?

Dr. Abolarinwa: 5 years

Crowny: What were the challenges you faced during your residency given that your gender is rare in the field of urology, especially in Nigeria?

Dr. Abolarinwa: Surprisingly, the male patients were very receptive. I consciously made friends with their wives and children so that I can get compliance with their treatment and abolish undue familiarity. The female patients and children were happy to see me. The few patients who were sceptical  eventually warmed up to me. I faced more resistance from male surgical colleagues, not...(stressing) the male patients. In fact, some of my male surgical trainers did not understand what I was doing there.

Crowny: What do you think is the factor surrounding the scarce female gender in the field?

Dr. Abolarinwa: There is this false assumption that urology is concerned with only the male and his genitals! That drives women away. Urology is also very demanding and wide. Not too favourable for family life per se. They also tend to fear rejection from dominant male patients.

Crowny: How do you feel being the Nigeria's first female Consultant Urologist?

Dr. Abolarinwa: I feel great; but mostly humbled. When I started it, it was not my intention to pioneer the field. It is a blessing to conclude what I started and even with such recognition.

Crowny: What do you for relaxation besides your busy schedule as a surgeon?

Dr. Abolarinwa: (smiles) Sleep... In fact, I am still in deficit. I also read novels, cook, do some sewing and knitting, watch African Magic Yoruba and play with my children... serious play o!

Crowny: What is your advice to young aspiring female doctors who want to specialise in urology?

Dr. Abolarinwa: They must have genuine interest. It is a 'doable' speciality for a woman. They must also dismiss all fears and superstitions. Have good support system for family. It is also lucrative, so think about it (smiles).

Crowny: Congratulations once more

Dr. Abolarinwa: Thank you very much.

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